The Trump-Vance transition team has yet to complete the necessary paperwork to officially begin the transfer of power, as stated by the White House.
Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre informed reporters on Thursday that “Our teams are still in communication” and “currently, the Trump-Vance transition team has not finalized agreements with the White House and the General Service Administration (GSA).”
Failure to sign these documents means that security clearances cannot be provided to incoming administration officials, the FBI cannot vet Trump’s choices for Cabinet and other key positions. The agreements also cover “office space, IT equipment, office supplies, fleet vehicles, mail management, and payment of compensation and other expenses,” according to the GSA.
“President Biden met with the president-elect to demonstrate the transition of power and provide any necessary assistance to ensure a peaceful and efficient process,” Jean-Pierre added.
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President Joe Biden met with President-elect Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House on Nov. 13. (AP/Evan Vucci)
“We will continue to engage with the Trump transition team to ensure an efficient and effective transfer of power,” she continued. “In these discussions, we emphasize that the White House and the administration are prepared to offer assistance and access to services and information as outlined in the GSA and White House memorandum of agreement. So, these conversations are ongoing, and our goal is a smooth process.”
Further delays in initiating the formal transition process could potentially result in Senators voting on Trump’s Cabinet picks without the usual background checks, reported the Associated Press.
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White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre speaks during the daily briefing at the White House on Thursday, Nov. 21. The Trump-Vance transition team still hasn’t signed documents to formally begin the transfer of power. (AP/Ben Curtis)
This process aims to identify personal issues, criminal records, and other potential concerns that may impact a nominee’s suitability for crucial roles.
It remains unclear why the required documents have not been signed yet.
President Joe Biden meets with President-elect Donald Trump in the Oval Office of the White House, Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, in Washington. (AP/Evan Vucci)
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Transition spokesman Brian Hughes previously stated that the team’s “lawyers are actively engaging with” officials from President Joe Biden’s outgoing administration, and updates will be provided “once a decision is reached.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
